How Does a Refrigerated Truck Work? A Beginner’s Guide :
Refrigerated trucks, often referred to as reefers, are the unsung heroes of the transportation world, ensuring that perishable goods like fresh produce, dairy products, and pharmaceuticals reach their destination in top condition. But how exactly do these marvels of modern technology keep our food fresh during transit? Let’s break it down into simple terms.
The Cooling System: Keeping It Cool
At the heart of every reefer truck is its refrigeration unit, responsible for maintaining the cargo at the right temperature. This unit can run on various fuels like electricity, propane, or diesel, but they all work in a similar way.
1. Compressor: Think of this as the engine of the cooling system. It’s connected to the truck’s engine and compresses a special gas called refrigerant, making it super cold.
2. Condenser: Located at the back of the truck, facing outward, the condenser receives the compressed refrigerant gas and turns it into a liquid. This happens as the gas passes through coils exposed to the outside air, cooling it down.
3. Evaporator: Inside the cargo area, the liquid refrigerant flows through coils again, absorbing heat from the air inside the truck. As it absorbs heat, it turns back into a gas, ready to start the cycle anew.
Insulation: Keeping the Cold In
But wait, there’s more! The inside of the truck is lined with special insulation, like a thick jacket, to trap the cold air inside and keep the warm air out. This insulation is crucial for maintaining a stable temperature throughout the journey.
The Most Critical Freon™ Refrigerants
The most critical Freon™ refrigerants for transportation refrigeration include Freon™ 134a (R-134a), Freon™ 404A (R-404A), and Freon™ 507 (R-507). These refrigerants play a vital role in keeping the refrigeration units of reefer trucks running smoothly.
The Indian Refrigerated Trucks Market
The refrigerated transportation market in India has witnessed significant growth in recent years. With an estimated 13,000 long-haul transport vehicles and 8,000 short-haul transport vehicles across the country, the market has evolved manifold to meet the growing demand for temperature-sensitive cargo transportation.
According to a report by IMARC Group, the India refrigerated trucks market size reached INR 5.4 Billion in 2022. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach INR 14.7 Billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 18.1% during 2023-2028. This significant growth underscores the importance of refrigerated trucks in India’s logistics and supply chain industry.
In conclusion, refrigerated trucks play a crucial role in preserving the quality and safety of perishable goods during transit. Thanks to their sophisticated cooling systems, dedicated drivers, and the use of critical Freon™ refrigerants, we can enjoy fresh produce and other temperature-sensitive items all year round.
